Pentecostalism

Pentecostalism is now the second largest sub-grouping of global Christianity. A movement that first emerged on the religious fringe in the United States now claims approximately 500 million adherents around the world. Pentecostalism grew on American soil for a variety of reasons. Stalwarts adopted the latest technologies to spread their message of the spirit. They broke with the many traditions and social conventions of mainline groups. This paper will examine the surprisingly innovative characteristics of the movement and offer other reasons for pentecostal success and distinctiveness.